Episode 1 of the Training series. What are the Duties when you're a Chase Pilot Car. Plus a start to the Required Equipment needed. Three to four Items will be discussed per show.

As a pilot car driver, your responsibilities may differ depending on the field in which you work. Many pilot car drivers, also known as escort vehicle drivers, work in the transport or freight industry, and their duties are to escort oversized trucks or trucks carrying large loads while on the road. I escorted a over sized load today from the rear 160 miles from Kentucky to the Virginia state line for the family trucking company and had a blast but once I got home and was telling another driver he immediately said that it was illegal that I didn't have the right safety courses, certificate etc. And before I go on let me tell you this guy is a you can't do that or It can't be done.

Pilot Car Driver Job Description

A pilot car driver works as team with the driver of an oversize truckload to make sure the truck gets safely to its destination. The pilot driver travels in front of the truck in a separate vehicle, warning the public if there are traffic changes due to the truckload. They also warn the truck if there is anything up ahead that can interfere with its safe passage. If you decide to be a pilot car driver, you’ll most likely need to go into business for yourself.

Find a pilot driver already in business, and ask if he’ll be your mentor, since there is no formal training to be a pilot driver. Look for pilot drivers at truck stops and roadside rest areas. Ride along with your mentor on a few runs, and see if you’re suited to this business.

Gather the financial resources to set up your car as a pilot car. Be prepared to work for 30 to 45 days until you receive payment from your first job. Your largest out-of-pocket expenses will include the flashing lights you'll need on top of your car, a mega phone hooked up to your car, and a CB radio.

Pilot Car Driver Jobs

Seek coverage from an insurance company that will insure your car for business use as a pilot car. Purchase a Business Liability Policy that will cover instances where the truck driver has an accident as a result of the instructions you gave him.

Upgrade and equip your vehicle for pilot car driving. Make sure your car is comfortable, as you’ll be spending 10 to 15 hours a day driving. You’ll need to get “Oversize Load” signs for the roof of your car. Buy two flashing amber lights and one revolving amber light, as well as two red flags, eight safety flares, and a reflective stop sign. Make sure you have a reflective safety vest and a hard hat as well.

Set up a bookkeeping system or hire a bookkeeper. Start immediately recording every mile you drive and every penny you spend.

Go back to your mentor and ask for recommendations of trucking companies with whom you can start working.

Oversize Load Pilot Car Jobs

Tip

How To Become A Pilot Car Driver In Oregon

To be a pilot driver, you need to have an excellent driving record and a love of driving. You also need a lot of stamina, as pilot car drivers are on the road for many hours at a stretch, for many days in a row.